2.5" HDD/SSD Drive Caddy for 3.5" Bays

thingiverse

This is a versatile drive caddy designed for securely mounting 2.5" SSDs or laptop HDDs within a standard 3.5" drive bay. Most new 2.5" drives come with their own adapter plate, but if you receive a bare drive or salvage one from another computer, laptop, or gaming console, you're left searching for an adapter to secure it properly. Instead of purchasing an additional adapter plate for a few dollars, why not utilize high-tech equipment worth hundreds of dollars to create your own custom solution? The drive connectors are conveniently located at the end marked with the "IDE / SATA" label, while side rails feature pockets for inserting 3mm hex nuts if you prefer a secure hold on the case mounting screws. The holes in this design accommodate standard 3mm case screws, allowing them to bite into the plastic and self-thread as long as they're not overtightened. For added convenience, assembled drive caddy images are provided alongside retail parts for comparison. Underneath, the model features screw head relief supports that can be easily removed by hand using a drill bit or screwdriver. When printing this design, it's essential to note that PLA is not recommended due to its tendency to melt and compromise hardware quality. Instead, opt for ABS/ASA or Nylon, which are more suitable materials. PET-G may also work, but its performance has yet to be thoroughly tested. Keep in mind that even small 2.5" drives can generate significant heat.